Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Whiteside County, IL
Originally published 1885 Chapman Bros., Chicago, IL

Transcribed by: Becky Jones

Pages 254-255

Edmund Bowman, jeweler on the corner of Third and Mulberry Streets, Sterling, was born in Strasburg, Pa., Oct. 14, 1824, and is a son of Joseph and Ann Bowman, who were also natives of the Keystone State.  He remained at his parental home until the age of 20, receiving a common-school education and learning of his father the jewelry business.

After leaving home, he worked at his trade as journeyman in Kennett Square, Chester Co., Pa.  He opened business for himself the first time in 1853, but subsequently he closed business there, brought his stock of goods to Sterling, opened a jewelry house and has since prosecuted his business here.  His success in this line, as might be expected, has been marked.  He has a farm of 204 acres three miles from Sterling, besides the corner he occupies in business and two dwelling-houses in Sterling.  In politics he is a Republican, and in the community he enjoys a high and honorable standing.

May 13, 1857, is the date of his marriage to Maria P. Adams, and they have five children living, namely, Frank J., Grant J., Edward, Jennie and Louise.